Understanding the Bible

By: John R. W. Stott

Narrated by: Simon Vance

Length: 7 hrs and 26 mins

Publisher's summary

This book answers foundational questions: Who wrote the Bible? What is its message? Why is it thought to be a 'holy' book? How does one read and interpret it? Best of all, though, you'll broaden your vision of Jesus Christ, the focal point of Scripture. How? By better understanding the geographical, religious, and historical concerns that shaped the world in which he lived. You'll see Jesus as never before: both as a man of his times and culture, and as the culmination of a divine providence that prepared the way for the ministry of the Messiah. Written by renowned preacher, writer, and apologist John Stott, this new, expanded edition includes - Questions at the beginning of each chapter to help you focus - New, up-to-date maps for the chapters on history and geography - An index to help you speedily access areas of interest.

©2011 Dr. John R.W. Stott (P)2011 Zondervan

This was the best explanation of the Bible

I've always questioned why certain things are used in the context they are used in today's world and is said to be from the Bible. it makes you say well that makes no sense, but this book gives a different perspective of what, why, who and where. Definitely worth a listen.

Educational and Fair

Those who want to hear whether the Biblical has a story from a common theme that references scripture and states differing opinions to his own will like this book. It is not emotional but educational and fair in its analysis. The reader does a great job as well.

Very dense read. Not very adequate for audio

Would you consider the audio edition of Understanding the Bible to be better than the print version?

I haven't read the print version, but I would assume that print would be more adequate than audio because the subject matter and the content of this book is extremely rich and dense. I often found myself needing to go back to better understand what was said, but rewinding by 30 minutes didn't really do the job. I also had to slow down the reading speed to 0.75x the original speed.

What other book might you compare Understanding the Bible to and why?

NA

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No

Any additional comments?

This book contains some very deep thoughts and life guidance. It's ability to answer some core questions and doubts around the bible are very complete and does not seek to conveniently omit contradicting arguments. It is also beautifully written. I will need to reread this book to soak it in a second time around

very good introduction

this book is a very good introduction to how to read and understand the Bible. if you are looking for something a little more in depth or advanced, then look at "how to read the Bible for all its worth" by Fee. however, this book will still be a good refresher and reminder of the Bible's truths and meta narrative.

profound!

I am in the process of going through it the second time..it has been such an encouraging gay special meal..I can read this daily!
thank you Jesus

Understanding the Bible

This is a fantastic, thorough overview! It is divided into meaningful chapters. I highly recommend it.

Excellent exposition of the Christian faith

What did you love best about Understanding the Bible?

John Stott has helped broaden my understanding of Christianity and my intellectual curiosity of the history of the Christian faith.

What did you like best about this story?

His historical and geographical exposition of Christianity which is very important to nurturing the Christian faith.

Have you listened to any of Simon Vance’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Yes, Simon Vance is consistently very good as a narrator.

Excellent book

This book helped deepen my knowledge of Christ and the Bible and how to understand many things I did not understand before. I highly recommend it.